How to Set Up Your Car Dealership's Google Business Profile

Setting up and optimizing your Google Business Profile is essential for improving local SEO, attracting nearby customers, and increasing online visibility for your dealership. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a complete and professional profile.

Step 1: Sign In to Google My Business

Go to Google Business Profile and sign in with your dealership’s Google account. If you don’t have a Google account, create one first.

Step 2: Add Your Dealership

• Click Add your business to Google.
• Enter your dealership name exactly as it should appear in search results.
• Select the appropriate category, e.g., Car Dealership.

Step 3: Enter Location Details

• Input your physical address, ensuring it matches your website and other listings for consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone).
• If you don’t have a storefront, you can hide your address and specify service areas.

Step 4: Add Contact Information

• Enter your primary phone number and dealership website URL.
• Ensure these details match what is displayed on your website for accurate local SEO.

Step 5: Verify Your Dealership

Google requires verification to ensure authenticity. You can usually verify via:

• Postcard mailed to your dealership address.
• Phone call or text (if available).
• Email (in some cases).

Follow the verification instructions and enter the code provided by Google.

Step 6: Optimize Your Profile

• Add your dealership hours of operation, including holiday hours.
• Write a compelling business description highlighting your services, brands, and unique selling points.
• Upload high-quality images of your dealership, inventory, staff, and facilities.
• Enable messaging to allow potential customers to contact you directly via Google.

Step 7: Add Products and Services

• List the vehicles you sell (new, used, certified pre-owned) with details and prices.
• Add additional services like financing, maintenance, trade-in options, and repair services.

Step 8: Collect and Manage Reviews

• Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile.
• Respond promptly to both positive and negative reviews to build trust and improve engagement.

Step 9: Post Updates and Offers

• Use the “Posts” feature to share promotions, new inventory, events, or service updates.
• Regularly posting keeps your profile active and improves search visibility.

Step 10: Monitor Insights and Performance

• Use the Google Business Profile dashboard to track views, clicks, and customer actions.
• Adjust your listing, photos, and posts based on performance metrics to optimize results.

Tips for Best Practices

• Maintain consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) across all online listings.
• Keep images up-to-date with current inventory and dealership branding.
• Respond to reviews promptly to improve reputation and engagement.
• Regularly post updates, offers, and promotions to enhance local SEO.

By completing these steps, your dealership will have a fully optimized Google Business Profile, improving your local search rankings, increasing customer engagement, and driving more leads and sales.